Characteristics of Institutions teaching Cartography in the Mem-
ber Nations of the International Cartographic Association (ICA)
Introduction
In order to discuss the characteristics of institutions teaching cartography, the
first obstacle that must be overcome is one of definition of terms. The definition
of cartography as adopted by Commission I, ICA, reads 'The aggregate of
scientific, artistic, and technical studies and Operations carried out, on the basis
of the results of direct observations or of exploitation of documentation, for the
elaboration and preparation of maps, plans, and other modes of expression, as
well as for the utilization of the latter'. This definition may be freely translated, if
one desires, as 'All Operations involved in the creation of a graphic product from
original surveys and/or compilation from existing source material to final printing
of the graphic'. The unanimous adoption of a definition of cartography by Com
mission I was, in itself, no mean accomplishment. Demanding that individual
institutions, reporting upon their teaching of cartography, accept, understand, and
apply this definition, or any one such definition, is unrealistic in the extreme. The
best that could be expected is that responses could be interpreted in light of the
definition.
Some institutions, particularly in the English-speaking nations, identify subjects
taught either as cartography or as cartography-relatedthe majority do not. Euro
pean nations reporting generally identify as cartography only those subjects which
are basically drafting or map compilation.
Is geodetic surveying a part of cartographic education? Within the definition of
Commission I it is. Is much of the subject matter of geography actually carto
graphy? This may never be resolved. For the purpose of this report, I have consider-
ed as teaching cartography many institutions which vigorously disclaim any such
activity.
Catalog of institutions
M. Georges alinhac of the Institut Geographique National of France is preparing
a comprehensive catalog of all institutions responding to Commission I inquiries.
This catalog will provide name, location, syllabus, and other pertinent data and
should prove definitive as a reference work for details on individual institutions.
For this reason this paper will not treat with individual institutions except as
examples within the scope of the paper.
Broad categories
Certain broad and arbitrary categories of institutions teaching cartography or
cartography-related subjects were determined at the 1966 meeting of Commission
I in Paris. These are:
1. Schools or universities presenting a broad program designed to produce
scientific or engineering cartographers.
2. Schools or universities primarily oriented toward engineering or geography
with academic majors in cartography.
3. Schools which teach cartography as a supportive or minor subject within other
general specialties, principally geography.
4. Training or technical schools which teach and develop cartographic techni-
cians or draftsmen.
K.N.A.G. Geografisch Tijdschrift I (1967) Nr. 5
